Hot Tuna Appetizer
Hot Tuna Appetizer is a delightful blend of water-packed tuna, savory anchovies, and vibrant vegetables, all topped with a rich Russian dressing and cognac mixture. Perfect for entertaining, this dish offers a unique and flavorful twist on traditional appetizers, making it ideal for gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients
- 1 (7 oz.) can water-packed tuna, drained and flaked ⓘ
- 12 anchovy fillets, chopped ⓘ
- 3/4 c. chopped green pepper
- 1/2 c. chopped pimento ⓘ
- 1 egg, hard-cooked and chopped ⓘ
- 3 green onions, chopped ⓘ
- 1 c. Russian dressing ⓘ
- 1 1/2 Tbsp. cognac
- 6 Tbsp. butter ⓘ
- 6 thin white bread slices, crusts removed ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce ⓘ
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine tuna, anchovies, green pepper, pimento, egg, and 2 tablespoons of Russian dressing.
- Mix well and set aside.
- In a small bowl, mix the remaining Russian dressing with cognac and set aside.
- In hot butter in a chafing dish or larger pan, sauté bread until well browned and butter is absorbed.
- In the same pan, spread the tuna mixture over the bread.
- Cover with the Russian dressing mixture.
- Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce over each.
- Heat over low heat for 5 to 10 minutes or until very hot.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider substituting the water-packed tuna with canned salmon or even imitation crabmeat for a different flavor profile. If you're looking to reduce fat, use a lighter butter or substitute half with olive oil. Ensure the bread slices are thin enough for even toasting and avoid burning. You can also add some spices like paprika or cayenne for an extra kick.
Serving Suggestions
This hot tuna appetizer is perfect as a starter for a casual gathering or a game day snack. Pair it with a fresh salad or crispy vegetables for a light meal. It also goes well alongside other seafood recipes, such as a creamy Seafood Casserole or a refreshing Seafood and Pasta Salad, making it versatile for any occasion.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, as microwaving may make the bread soggy. If the topping is too dry, add a splash of Russian dressing before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Tuna Appetizer contains roughly 340 calories, with 6g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (98% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 636mg per serving (28% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the tuna mixture a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. However, it's best to sauté the bread and assemble the dish just before serving to maintain the crispy texture. The Russian dressing mixture can also be made in advance and refrigerated until ready to use.
What can I serve with this hot tuna appetizer?
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a simple green salad or vegetable platter for a fresh contrast. You could also complement it with crackers or toasted baguette slices for added crunch, enhancing the overall experience of the dish.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Certainly! You can replace the tuna and anchovies with a mixture of mashed chickpeas and finely chopped olives for a savory flavor. Add in the same vegetables and dressings to maintain the essence of the dish while making it vegetarian-friendly. This version will still be delicious and satisfying!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).